Why does the Establishment invade your holiday period with homework? The answer is stark – because it doesn't want to relinquish control over you, not for a day, not for an hour. From the day you were required to hand over your lunch box to the primary school teacher for inspection[1], the Establishment has been training you to be compliant.
How you could pursue these opportunities is somewhat circumstance dependent. The local council website (also try the local library) should have a list of organizations, clubs and volunteer groups you could select from and join. Attending exhibitions, shows and even markets can be rewarding, as people there are very happy to chat about what they're doing. When the chance occurs (or when you make it occur) talk to people about their work. Provided you haven't picked a "bad time" people generally are pleased tell you of their experience. Bear in mind that career counsellors can tell you about a job – income, qualifications, employment opportunities, etc – but they can't tell you what it is like to actually work at that job. Only the person doing the job can do that.
Relaxed (well sort of relaxed ;-) reading suggestions.
Several approaches to help you decide if an engineering career is for you.